Spend a full day from Melbourne visiting Phillip Island’s wildlife park, the Nobbies boardwalk and the famed Penguin Parade. This guided small-group tour balances close wildlife viewing with managed conservation practices.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the coach as wind sweeps salt across low scrub; the ocean ahead hunches like a living thing, waves daring the rocky headlands. The day unfolds in chapters: a wildlife park where kangaroos graze in sunlit paddocks and koalas blink from eucalyptus forks; Cowes’ tidy main street for coffee and sea air; the Nobbies boardwalk where basalt shelves and blown kelp frame distant seal rocks; and, finally, the Penguin Parade at dusk, when hundreds of little penguins shuffle ashore under dim lights.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
Approx. 12 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; short walks and standing periods at viewing areas
Wildlife
History
Phillip Island sits on Bunurong country and later developed through 19th-century farming and fishing; conservation efforts since the mid-20th century shaped modern visitor access.
Conservation
Phillip Island Nature Parks manage breeding colonies with boardwalks and timed viewing to minimize disturbance; stick to paths and follow ranger guidance to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Phillip Island Penguin and wildlife Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Book Penguin Parade tickets early
Penguin viewing has limited capacity—reserve your parade entry and any platform upgrades in advance to avoid sold-out times.
Dress for coastal wind
Layer a windproof jacket and warm mid-layer; temperatures drop quickly at dusk when the parade begins.
Bring binoculars, not a flash
Binoculars improve distant viewing; flashes are prohibited and disturb wildlife—use low-light settings on cameras instead.
Mind walking surfaces
Boardwalks and beach access can be slippery after rain—wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for stability.
Windproof jacket
Blocks coastal wind and keeps you warm during evening penguin viewing.
Binoculars
Helps spot seals at the Nobbies and penguins returning at dusk.
Sturdy, waterproof shoes
Useful for boardwalks, sandy beach walks, and damp conditions.
Headlamp or small flashlight (low brightness)
For safely moving to and from car parks after dark—use dim mode and avoid flashing near wildlife.